Days turned into weeks, and James continued to visit the pub, but it became increasingly apparent that he was growing weaker. Carla watched him closely, noticing the way he tightly gripped his cane for support and how his breathing grew heavier with each passing day.
It pained her to see him like this—a man who once exuded life and energy now slowly fading away. One evening, he arrived later than usual, his steps more unsteady than before. He sat down heavily at his usual table, and she felt a knot of worry tighten in her stomach.